The 29th edition of the People’s Race was fair game from start gun to finish line with an excess of 25 000 runners embracing the rich heritage of Soweto.
Warmly hosted by partners as well as clubs and community members, the 5h30 gun unleashed the 42.2km runners, no doubt eager to beat the sweltering heat that makes this race all the more challenging. Despite the early start, the residents stood roadside, where they remained in full force throughout the day.
At 6h30 came the turn of the 21.1km batch, adding more eager athlete’s to transverse the Gauteng township. Hot on their heels was the sizeable group of the 10km runners.
Interspersed amongst the thousands of serious athlete’s, came the song and dance in celebration The Peoples Race from those runners keen to just have a good time. Whatever your reason was to take to the streets at Nasrec on 3 November, the race delivered something for everyone.
Soweto Marathon Spokesperson Thokozani Mazibuko says he’s exceptionally proud of the race and all those who worked tirelessly to ensure a safe, pleasurable and well run event;
“It’s been a fantastic day! This was one of the biggest Soweto Marathon’s since the inception of the race, epitomising the spirit of SOWETO! Our team and treasured partners have gone above and beyond for the valued people of Soweto, South Africa and far beyond our borders. We are truly grateful for those who helped us run a successful event and a hearty congratulations to our over 25 000 runners who took to the streets today: The African Bank Soweto Marathon medal is one of the toughest – and you’ve earned it fair and square so well done to you!”
The African Bank Soweto Marathon 42km mens winner was Onalenna Khonkhobe taking the win in a time of 2:18:36. His time beats 2023 winner Ntsindiso Mphakathi who won in 2:19:13. Winning the womens marathon was Neheng Khatala from Lesotho in a time of 2:43:07 – not quite quick enough to top 2023 winner and 4 time champion, Irvette van Zyl who clocked a 2:34:16 in last year’s run.
“This year’s African Bank Soweto Marathon is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we back our communities and uplift each other," says Sbusiso Kumalo, Chief Marketing Officer of African Bank. "The commitment and spirit of the runners, our partners, and the local volunteers have truly made this a race for the people, by the people. Together, we’re celebrating perseverance, unity, and the vibrant legacy of Soweto.”
And so, as Sunday’s sun set and exhausted individuals headed homeward, another excellent African Bank Soweto Marathon was celebrated, by the people, for the people. Perseverance, endurance and unparalleled spirit from start to finish will no doubt see return entries come 2025.
Top 10 Male finishers for the 2024 African Bank Soweto Marathon:
Top 10 Female finishers for the 2024 African Bank Soweto Marathon:
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